As daylight saving time is set to end on Nov. 1, 2026, Americans are preparing to turn their clocks back one hour at 2 a.m. local time, marking the transition to standard time. This annual change, which grants an extra hour of sleep, also results in earlier sunsets throughout the winter months. While the shift traditionally affects evening activities, it is unlikely to impact this year’s Halloween festivities on Oct. 31, since the clock change will occur after the date.

The possibility of making daylight saving time permanent has been a topic of renewed debate in Washington. President Donald Trump has voiced strong support for ending the biannual clock changes, framing the current practice as “foolish” and “inconvenient.” Advocating for the Sunshine Protection Act, Trump highlighted potential benefits such as a reduction in traffic accidents and crime, energy savings, and increased time for outdoor and family activities. He urged Congress to “pass the Sunshine Protection Act, ASAP” to maintain daylight saving time year-round.

The House of Representatives approved the bill in July 2026, but the measure’s future remains uncertain as the Senate is currently in recess until mid-September. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has expressed skepticism about whether the bill has sufficient support for passage before the upcoming time change. If the Senate does pass the legislation, it would then require the president’s signature to take effect. Until such action occurs, Americans are expected to continue the existing practice of switching clocks in November.

Experts on sleep and health, while generally critical of the twice-yearly time changes, do not unanimously endorse permanent daylight saving time. Many argue that permanent standard time aligns better with the human body’s natural circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep and biological functions. Research indicates that the spring-forward transition is associated with sleep disruption, increased traffic accidents, and greater health risks. Erik Herzog, a biology and neuroscience professor at Washington University in St. Louis, has advocated for permanent standard time as a healthier choice.

Religious communities have also voiced concerns about the impact of permanent daylight saving time. Certain Jewish and Muslim practices rely on the timing of sunrise and sunset for prayers and observances. A later sunrise in winter, especially in regions such as the Midwest and Mountain West, could complicate morning rituals for these groups.

Currently, several states and territories, including Hawaii and most of Arizona, as well as American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, do not observe daylight saving time, remaining on standard time year-round.

Public sentiment appears to favor ending the clock changes, with polls indicating that a majority of Americans are tired of the biannual adjustments. However, opinions remain divided on whether the country should adopt permanent daylight saving time or permanent standard time. The broader question of how the U.S. will handle its timekeeping system remains unresolved as lawmakers weigh different proposals ahead of the next scheduled clock change.